National League Spring Previews

As the ball dropped on New Year's Eve, some people were happier than others to greet the next 100 years.The Atlanta Braves were definitely among those who hated seeing the last decade end.

Will more than just the calendar change? While the Braves are determined to wring another world championship out of their nine-year run of excellence, the time may be right for a shift of power in the National League.

It was all the Braves could do to hold off the New York Mets last October and the Mets have added 22-game winner Mike Hampton. But they are hardly the only potential powerhouse plotting a palace overthrow.

Arizona won 100 games in its second season. Cincinnati adds Ken Griffey Jr. to the surprise team of '99. Houston has averaged 94 victories in Larry Dierker's three seasons as a manager.

For the Braves, making it to the playoffs could be a bigger problem than John Rocker. That says a lot.

Needs fixing: The health of Pete Harnisch and Denny Neagle is critical. McKeon could move Rookie of the Year Scott Williamson or LHP Dennys Reyes into the thin starting rotation, but wants them in the bullpen.

Worth watching: McKeon's interaction with Griffey could be interesting. Ken Griffey Sr. has been widely rumored as McKeon's replacement.

Needs fixing: Fielding was a weak spot last year, including a hard-to-believe 23 errors by 1B Kevin Young.

Worth watching: C Jason Kendall (broken ankle) and SS Pat Meares (torn tendon, left hand) return after injuries. Kendall could be used occasionally at third or in the outfield as he regains durability behind the plate.